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BTS Recap: Kenworth builds on rich legacy

The iconic heavy duty truck brand showcased a new generation of trusted models to the Australian market in Brisbane

Australia’s leading heavy duty truck brand used the latest edition of the truck show to unveil its latest generation of wide cab models. Nine years on from the release of the revolutionary T610 model, Kenworth’s massive space saw the T320, T420SAR, T620 and T620SAR displayed.

The new models continue Kenworth’s long history of evolving to local requirements, with the trucks produced out of the Kenworth DAF Bayswater plant in Victoria adhering to the upcoming ADR 80/04 that comes into effect in November.

“Our engineers spent several months in the field to understand what operators truly need in today’s market. The result is an impressive range of trucks that really delivers for both owners and drivers alike, no matter the application,” PACCAR Australia chief engineer Brad May said.

PACCAR Australia director of sales and marketing Michael Long said Kenworth’s engineers spent “countless hours” gathering customer insights. The feedback was clear – the existing models were excellent, but there was still room for improvement.

“Those implemented enhancements and refinements have culminated in the new generation series,” Long said.

Through PACCAR Connect, the owner experience has been transformed through real-time data for informed decision-making, with Kenworth integrating new systems that simplify compliance and operations.

“Running a transport operation has not been a simple life for a long time, but it’s become infinitely more difficult now,” Kenworth director of product planning Ross Cureton said.

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“Our customers have told us how they need accurate, timely information – but not so much that they’re overwhelmed. Our new trucks are the centrepiece of this solution to this.”

When it comes to the T620 and T620SAR models, the Cummins X15 Euro 6 engine with power ratings up to 625hp make them suitable for a variety of applications. The T420SAR includes the latest ADR compliant PACCAR MX-13 engine, with the TX-12 and TX-18 transmissions delivering more torque at low engine speeds.

Standing out on the Kenworth stand was the fan favourite T909 flagship model. The iconic Kenworth line-up also showcased the brand’s response to customer demand for larger bunks, with the T909 featuring an updated 60” bunk option.

Image: Kenworth Australia

Having all been tested and validated locally, the models on display at Brisbane were enough to satisfy Kenworth that their new generation is building on a legacy of high performance and quality in Australia.

“The truck is the source of truth. No longer reliant on anecdotal evidence or gut feeling about critical numbers like fuel consumption, the truck’s existing on-board sensors, paired with proprietary PACCAR Connect, can tell the full story, providing crucial data for insightful and accurate business decision making,” May said.

Long said: “A superior driver environment, coupled with the technology to inform, leads to better all-round driving performance, safety, efficiency and productivity.

“By being closely connected with our customers and attuned to driver needs, we’ve been able to take the existing driver and owner experience and elevate it.”

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